FEATURED

We are delighted to welcome the Great Tapestry of Scotland to Stirling Castle as part of its national tour. It is officially the largest embroidered tapestry in the world and tells the story of Scotland’s history.

Family fun at Dumbarton Castle

3 June 2014

Visitors to Dumbarton Castle this Sunday will have the opportunity to travel back in time to the 17th century to learn more about the civil wars of the period.

Holding the Rock for Scotland will offer an insight into the castle’s significance in the mid-17th century. Visitors will have the chance to learn about how soldiers would have lived, dressed and fought, and can find out more about the history of the castle, one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds and a cornerstone of medieval royal power.

A Year of Homecoming 2014 event. there will be musketry displays and pike drills from costumed performers as well as presentations on the Covenanters and the castle’s role in Scotland in the 17th century. A key strong point which defenders and invaders sought to hold, Dumbarton changed hands a number of times during the 1640s.

Dr Lorna Ewan, Head of Visitor Experience, Content and Learning at Historic Scotland said: “With spectacular views and a rich and fascinating history, Dumbarton Castle has something for everyone. That history will be brought to life this Sunday, when visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about castle life in the 17th century in a fun and educational event which combines re-enactment and storytelling.”

Holding the Rock for Scotland takes place at Dumbarton Castle from 12-4pm on Sunday 8th June. Admission is free with entry to the castle. For more information visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/homecoming

Notes for editors:

Historic Scotland is an executive agency of the Scottish Government charged with safeguarding the nation’s historic environment. The agency is fully accountable to Scottish Ministers and through them to the Scottish Parliament.

Scotland welcomes the world in the Year of Homecoming 2014 providing a year-long programme of events alongside the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games. The Year of Homecoming Scotland will run until 31 December 2014 throughout the length and breadth of the country. Visitors from around the world are invited to join in a celebration of the nation’s food and drink, active pursuits, cultural heritage, nature and ancestral heritage. Homecoming Scotland 2014 is a Scottish Government initiative being led by EventScotland and VisitScotland, supported by numerous partners. To find out more visit www.homecomingscotland.com. For more on Historic Scotland’s Homecoming activities visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/homecoming or tweet us using #hshomecoming.